Members of the United Methodist Church in Strong City took what was originally a minor annoyance and turned it into a project to benefit needy Chase County residents.
On the first Sunday of each summer month, the church hosts the Holy Smoke BBQ from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Proceeds from the monthly barbecues go to a project called Helping Hands of Faith, a local group that helps families in need.
This is the second year for the barbecue and it is becoming a popular community event, so far contributing over $1,700 to various causes.
“We’ve provided gifts to people, things like medical expenses,” said Jennifer Stout, a member of the church. “We’ve had a couple of house fires and we’ve given folks money for that. We’ve given quite a few gasoline cards so that people can buy gas to get to doctors appointments. We’ve given away a couple of scholarships and contributed to the Chase County Christmas program.”
The idea for the barbecues came last summer during the Sunday motorcycle rallies in Cassoday. Stout said the motorcycles roaring through town interrupted the church services.
“We figured, if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em,” Stout said, explaining that church members decided to move services back from 11 a.m. to 8 a.m. on the first Sunday to make time for the barbecues, which are intended for the bikers as well as community members.
“We’ve had quite a few stop on their way through town,” Stout said of the bikers. “We’ve had lots that come back month after month, and then the community has embraced us and they come over lunch. So it’s been a really nice thing.”
The sack lunches cost $6 each and contain pulled pork sandwiches, baked beans, chips, cookies and beverages. The next Holy Smoke BBQ will take place Sunday at the Strong City United Methodist Church, 401 Cottonwood St., Strong City.
“We’re so excited that we’re able to help people in the community,” Stout said. “We’re making a presence in the community and we’re able to help people. It’s a lot of fun, and we’d love to have more people come. The more the merrier.”